Youth Public Safety

Every issue -- whether poverty, homelessness, climate change, racial injustice, gun violence, healthcare, or education, severely impacts Houston's children, who are some of our most vulnerable residents. Today's children have faced unprecedented circumstances and have witnessed the horrors of school shootings, police brutality, global pandemics, and natural disasters, all within the last few years. The Mayor's Office of Education and Youth Engagement works to engage youth in efforts to build a better future, one based not only on self-determination, but also on a society that recognizes the inherent worth of every child regardless of race, socioeconomic status, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or ability.

The Mayor’s Office of Education & Youth Engagement reviews data and statistics of socioeconomic, environmental, and health factors in Houston to develop a more holistic understanding of how neighborhood environments and public health conditions interconnect with crime. Analyzing factors such as illegal dumping, obesity, homelessness, substance abuse, and high school graduation rates presents a more accurate picture of the overall health of Houston communities and the impact crime can have on environments already vulnerable or susceptible to other community challenges. It is important to take note of these issues and correlations to attempt to lessen the effects on youth and the community.

Through education-focused initiatives, the Mayor’s Office of Education and Youth Engagement (MOEYE) aims to create positive and enriching experiences for youth and families to improve perceptions and enhance community safety. In an attempt to lessen the effects of environmental burdens on youth and crime statistics, MOEYE has provided access to quality childcare and early childhood education, mental health interventions and support, and a youth workforce development program.

Our office continues to work with youth to understand their needs and connect them to the resources they need to feel safe and be successful. The City of Houston Youth Ambassadors Public and School Safety Committee develops projects to shed light on youth experiences and provide recommendations for improved safety for youth in their schools and communities.

Youth Participation and Voice

The City of Houston recognizes that young people should have a range of opportunities for meaningful participation and decision-making influence within the systems and institutions that affect them. The City of Houston has made youth voice a priority, and our office creates equitable systems that represent & include youth voices! By empowering youth and fostering their unique talents, we are building a city that is safe, equitable, just, inclusive & youth-led. Here is a selected list of channels to make your voice heard:

• Write to Mayor John Whitmire: mayor@houstontx.gov
• Request Mayor John Whitmire's presence
• Schedule a public session appearance
• Email the MOEYE: MOEdu@houstontx.gov